le Pli Salon & Day Spa

The Scene
Cambridge suffers from a dearth of top-flight spas, but Le Pli keeps its clients from crossing the Charles River by virtue of its relaxed setting, expertly rendered services and professional staff. Located in the courtyard of the upscale Charles Hotel, the spa enjoys a steady stream of visiting academics and celebrities, as well as Harvard moms and dads in town for Parents' Weekend. Fluffy terry robes, a calming New-Age soundtrack, soft color schemes and modern, sleek design contribute to a warm, soothing environment.

The Services
While most clients stop in for basic manicures and waxing services, the spa has graced the pages of national magazines because of its hard-to-find, state-of-the-art treatments like glycolic acid facials (great for those with acne or older, sagging skin). The technicians' expertise warrants some of the area's highest prices, but once you give in to a therapeutic hot stone massage, you're likely to forget its $165 price tag.